Disney has unveiled the first trailer for its highly anticipated live-action remake of "Lilo & Stitch," set to debut in theaters nationwide on May 23, 2025. This new adaptation builds upon the beloved 2002 animated classic, promising a fresh take while honoring the original's heartfelt narrative.
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Dean Fleischer Camp, the film brings together a stellar cast including Maia Kealoha as Lilo, Sydney Elizebeth Agudong as Nani, and Courtney B. Vance reprising his role as Agent Cobra Bubbles. Returning to voice Stitch is Chris Sanders, who originally voiced the character in both the animated film and the subsequent television series from 2003 to 2006. The inclusion of Zach Galifianakis as Jambo and Hannah Waddingham as the Great Consul adds depth to the ensemble.
The storyline remains true to its roots, following the escapades of Stitch, a genetically engineered alien, as he escapes from a cosmic laboratory and finds solace with a Hawaiian family. The film delves deeper into the scientific aspects of Stitch's origins and the intergalactic efforts to retrieve him, blending elements of science fiction with the original's emotional core. This approach promises to enhance the technical storytelling, offering audiences a more immersive experience.
Production is helmed by Jonathan Eirich and Dan Lin, with executive producers Tom Peitzman, Ryan Halprin, Louie Provost, and Thomas Schumacher ensuring a high-quality rendition of the beloved tale. The screenplay by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes is expected to balance humor and heart, staying true to the characters while introducing new layers to their relationships.
As anticipation builds, the new "Lilo & Stitch" is poised to deliver both nostalgic charm and modern cinematic advancements, appealing to longtime fans and new audiences alike. The integration of advanced visual effects and a refined musical score aims to elevate the storytelling, making this remake a noteworthy addition to Disney's repertoire of classic remakes.